Aruba

Curacao is a Dutch island in the Caribbean, among the group known as the ABC islands alongside Aruba and Bonaire. Located just off the coast of Venezuela, the island features a unique multicultural mix, playing home to no less than 150,000 residents who hail from more than 55 countries.

Travel Advisories

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Government of Canada Travel Advisory

Last Updated: January 19, 2018 7:53 EST1. RECENT UPDATESThe Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).2. ADVISORIESAruba - Take normal security precautionsTake normal security precautions in Aruba.Travel Health Notice - Zika virusThe Public Health Agency of Canada has issued advice for travellers on the Zika virus, recommending that Canadians practice special health precautions while travelling in affected countries. Pregnant women and those considering becoming pregnant should avoid travel to Aruba. See Health for more information.3. SECURITYCrimePetty crime occurs in Aruba, especially in areas frequented by tourists such as the district of San Nicolas. Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times, and carry a photocopy of your passport's identification. Never leave valuables such as jewelry, cell phones, electronics, wallets or bags unattended on the beach or in your vehicle. Avoid unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches after dark. Check with local authorities to identify patrolled beaches.Road safetyMajor roads are in good condition, but road signs are rare and can be different from those in Canada. Wandering animals are a hazard on inland roads. Roads can become slippery after a rain.Public transportationTaxis are not metered; they operate on a flat rate by destination set by the government. Despite the regulated price, agree on a fare prior to departure. Taxis are discernable from the “TX” marking on the license plate.There is a reliable daily bus service between the hotel areas and several main districts.Air travelWe do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.General information about foreign domestic airlinesWater sportsIf you are planning to take part in water sports such as scuba diving, jetskiing or parasailing, upgrade your travel insurance coverage to include coverage for adventure travel before you leave Canada.4. ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTSEvery country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination's entry or exit requirements.We have obtained the information on this page from the Dutch authorities. It can, however, change at any time.Verify this information with foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada.PassportEntry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.Regular Canadian passportYour passport must be valid for at 3 months beyond the date of expected departure from Aruba.Passport for official travelDifferent entry rules may apply.Official travelOther travel documentsDifferent entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.Useful linksForeign diplomatic missions and consulates in CanadaCanadian passportsVisasTourist visa: Not required (for stays of 30 days or less)Business visa: Not requiredWork permit: RequiredStudent visa: RequiredCanadians can stay in Aruba without a visa for a maximum of 30 days.Other requirementsA return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay, and proof of health insurance (or travel insurance that includes health coverage) are required to enter Aruba.You must have a completely filled-in and signed Embarkation and Disembarkation card (ED-card), which can be completed, upon booking your travel, online at ED-card Aruba.Airport taxAn airport tax is payable upon departure and is usually included in the airline ticket price.Children and travelLearn about travel with children.Yellow feverLearn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).5. HEALTHMedical services and facilitiesMedical care is generally good and medical facilities are well-equipped. Hospitals offer several classes of service. Patients are accommodated according to the level of their insurance coverage and ability to pay. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and medical evacuation, if required. Contact your insurance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.There is no decompression chamber on the island.6. LAWS AND CULTUREYou must abide by local laws.Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.Aruba is a country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.By Dutch law, you must always carry identification. You should have a copy of your passport with you at all times.DrivingAn International Driving Permit is recommended.Driving is on the right side of the road; turning right on red lights is prohibited.The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device, and is punishable by a fine.It is against the law to ride in a car (or taxi) with a child under the age of five if they are not properly restrained in a child safety device.Dual citizenshipDual citizenship is legally recognized in Aruba.If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Aruba, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.General information for travellers with dual citizenshipDual citizens may be subject to national obligations such as taxes. Those affected should inquire at an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands regarding their status.RentalsPurchase insurance when renting motorboats, jet skis and vehicles. Ensure that you obtain detailed information, in writing, regarding personal liability.InvestmentsIf you are interested in purchasing property or making other investments in Aruba, seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in Aruba before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.MoneyThe currency is the Aruban florin (AWG). U.S. dollars, traveller's cheques in U.S. dollars and credit cards are widely accepted. You may convert foreign currencies at all major banks and numerous exchange facilities. Automated banking machines are available throughout the country.7. DISASTERS AND CLIMATEHurricane seasonHurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:know that you expose yourself to serious safety risksbe prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your tripstay informed of the latest regional weather forecastscarry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operatorfollow the advice and instructions of local authoritiesUseful linksHurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoonsLarge-scale emergencies abroadActive storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings - United States' National Hurricane CenterAruba is located in an active seismic zone.

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